Comorbidities
Epilepsy and intellectual disability are the main problems for children and adults with Dravet Syndrome. However, they also have a number of other associated neurodevelopment conditions or health problems, known as ‘comorbidities’. Some comorbidities are common, others less so, and all vary in severity for each individual.
In this section of our website, we cover the most common comorbidities seen in Dravet Syndrome, including autism spectrum disorder, behaviours that challenge, ADHD, movement and mobility issues, growth and nutrition concerns, sleep problems, infection and immune problems and dysautonomia (a condition that encompasses a fast heart rate, low blood pressure, dizziness, sluggish digestion & circulation).
In the video below, Dr Andreas Brunklaus, Paediatric Neurologist at the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow and Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer at the University of Glasgow, provides an overview of the most common comorbidities associated with Dravet Syndrome. After watching this introductory video, please click on the links below for more information about each specific comorbidity.
Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
More than half of people with Dravet Syndrome report some characteristics of autism.
Behaviours That Challenge
Research suggests that around 50% of individuals with Dravet Syndrome develop behaviours that challenge.
Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder
Up to two-thirds of individuals with Dravet Syndrome also have symptoms of ADHD,
Movement and Mobility Issues
Up to 80% of families of people with Dravet Syndrome experience these, sometimes described as ataxia and gait issues.
Growth and Nutrition Concerns
Around 60% of children with Dravet Syndrome show some growth and nutrition issues of varying extent.
Sleep Problems
Sleeping difficulties have been shown to affect between 75% and 97% of individuals with Dravet Syndrome.
Infections and Immune Problems
Frequent ear, nose, throat, lung and digestive infections can be a problem for some people with Dravet Syndrome.
Dysautonomia
Symptoms include fast heart rate, low blood pressure, dizziness, sluggish digestion & circulation.
